On a chilly and damp winter day, few things are as inviting as the warm ambiance of a quaint country pub. I had three compelling reasons to venture into this charming country pub nestled in a small village in the Vale of Glamorgan. Firstly, it boasted an excellent reputation for its culinary offerings. Secondly, having cycled past it numerous times, I often found myself tempted to abandon my bike and wander in for a pint.
However, the most significant reason that drew me to this pub was that it is owned by a renowned sports figure. Two decades ago, I was among the spectators when Gavin Henson executed one of the most iconic and crucial kicks in Welsh rugby history. Despite not being Wales’ primary kicker that day, Henson, faced with a challenging situation as Wales trailed England by a point in Cardiff with only five minutes left, courageously stepped up and launched a remarkable 44-meter kick from an almost impossible angle. This kick sealed Wales’ victory and marked the beginning of a new era in Welsh rugby.
Henson, known for his distinctive style with spiky hair, bronzed skin, shaved legs, and remarkable physique, ascended to stardom and formed one half of a celebrity power couple with singer Charlotte Church. Their glamorous lifestyle often landed them in the headlines of UK tabloids and Heat magazine in the mid-to-late 2000s, earning them the moniker “Welsh Posh and Becks.” Beyond his celebrity status, Henson showcased exceptional athletic prowess and dedication. Despite his penchant for standing out, he garnered immense admiration from the public.
In recent times, Henson has retreated from the limelight, preferring a quiet family life in the tranquil village of St Brides Major, near his childhood home. Although he rarely grants interviews and declined participation in a BBC podcast, his presence at The Fox, the pub he and his wife Katie took over in 2019, is evident. Following a significant refurbishment, The Fox reopened in February 2020, receiving early acclaim for its cuisine and hospitality, with Henson himself seen attending tables. Subsequently, the pub faced challenges amid the hospitality crisis triggered by the pandemic and Brexit.
Presently, The Fox exudes an aura of long-standing comfort and familiarity. Upon entering, I immediately felt at ease in its homely yet stylish setting, characterized by flagstone flooring, dark blue and off-white walls, rustic wooden furnishings, and tasteful Christmas adornments. Seated at a cozy corner table, we savored Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager as we perused the menu. The wine selection, starting at an affordable price point, complemented the dining experience.
The Sunday menu featured a concise selection of starters and main courses, from which we opted for crispy ham hock with confit egg yolk, fennel, and apple, as well as a cod and salmon fishcake with samphire and caper butter. Both dishes arrived impeccably presented, with crispy exteriors and flavorful interiors. For mains, we relished roast sirloin of Welsh beef and shoulder of Welsh lamb, both exquisitely prepared and accompanied by an array of delectable sides. The meal concluded on a high note, although we regrettably had to forgo desserts due to satiation.
As we settled the bill, which included starters, mains, beverages, and children’s meals, the total came to a reasonable sum. Immersed in the welcoming atmosphere, I found myself reluctant to leave, a sentiment echoed by nearby diners expressing their intent to return. In essence, my experience at The Fox can be summed up in four words: truly delightful and memorable, despite missing a chance encounter with one of my sporting idols.